Swede (Brassica Napus ssp rapifera)

A form of brassica, so related closely to cabbage. Swedes are thought to have developed by accident when turnips (another form of brassica) and cabbages were being grown in the same garden, probably in Sweden - they certainly arrived in Britain from that quarter in the latter part of the 18th century. If growing try to find a variety called "Marian" which produces a less watery root than other varieties.

Rather confusingly swedes are called neeps in Scotland, where they are a traditional accompaniment to haggis.

Swedes are also sometimes called 'rutabaga' - a corruption of the Swedish 'rota bagge' (red bags).

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